WARNING

Guaituss AC is a combination medication containing guaifenesin and codeine. Here are some potential risks associated with taking this medication:

• Respiratory Depression: Codeine, a narcotic, can slow down breathing, especially in high doses or when combined with other depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines. This effect can be particularly dangerous, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions.
• Addiction and Dependence: Codeine is an opioid and has addictive properties. Prolonged or excessive use can lead to physical dependence and addiction.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Codeine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and impaired motor skills, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Common side effects of guaifenesin include upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, it can cause diarrhea.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to codeine or other components of Guaituss AC, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Drug Interactions: Guaituss AC can interact with other medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and certain antibiotics, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced effectiveness of either medication.
• Overdose: Taking too much codeine can lead to overdose symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, slowed or difficult breathing, fainting, or even coma, which can be life-threatening.

It’s essential to use Guaituss AC only as directed by a healthcare professional and to be aware of these potential risks. Always discuss any concerns or questions about medications with your doctor or pharmacist.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Guaituss AC is typically prescribed for the temporary relief of coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with conditions such as the common cold, flu, allergies, or respiratory tract infections.

It contains two active ingredients:

• Guaifenesin: This is an expectorant that helps loosen mucus and phlegm in the lungs, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways.
• Codeine: This is a narcotic cough suppressant that helps to reduce the urge to cough by acting on the brain’s cough center.

How should this medicine be used?

Guaituss AC should be used exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider or as directed on the medication label. Follow these guidelines for proper usage:

• Dosage: Take the medication exactly as directed. Do not take more of it, take it more often, or take it for a longer time than prescribed by your doctor. The dosage will depend on your medical condition, age, weight, and response to treatment.
• Administration: Guaituss AC is typically taken orally with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water to ensure proper hydration.
• Frequency: Take Guaituss AC at the intervals recommended by your doctor, usually every 4 to 6 hours as needed for cough relief. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency of administration.
• Avoid Crushing or Chewing: Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets, as this can increase the risk of releasing too much medication at once, leading to potential side effects or overdose.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids while taking Guaituss AC to help loosen mucus and facilitate its expulsion from the airways.
• Duration of Use: Use Guaituss AC for the shortest duration necessary to relieve your symptoms. If your cough persists for more than a week, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or rash, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Guaituss AC suddenly without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been using it for an extended period. Your doctor may need to gradually reduce your dosage to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
• Storage: Store Guaituss AC at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of Unused Medication: Dispose of any unused or expired medication properly according to local guidelines or by consulting your pharmacist.

If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Guaituss AC, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification and guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Guaituss AC is primarily prescribed for cough relief due to minor throat and bronchial irritation. However, physicians may sometimes prescribe it for other conditions or symptoms based on their clinical judgment. Off-label uses could include cough suppression for other respiratory conditions or as part of a combination therapy for certain types of pain management.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Guaituss AC:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have a history of respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or if you have a history of substance abuse or addiction.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, particularly to opioids like codeine or any other ingredients in Guaituss AC.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Guaituss AC should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Codeine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Consult with your healthcare provider before using this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when giving Guaituss AC to children or the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to its effects. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on age and weight.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Guaituss AC can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impair cognitive and motor functions. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Alcohol and Other Depressants: Avoid consuming alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking Guaituss AC, as it can increase the risk of dangerous side effects such as respiratory depression and sedation.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications can interact with Guaituss AC, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects or reducing its effectiveness.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines when taking Guaituss AC and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Guaituss AC. However, it’s essential to maintain proper hydration by drinking plenty of fluids while taking this medication to help loosen mucus and facilitate coughing.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose of Guaituss AC, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Guaituss AC, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Guaituss AC may include:

• Drowsiness: Codeine, one of the active ingredients in Guaituss AC, can cause drowsiness or sedation, which may impair your ability to concentrate or operate machinery.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Guaituss AC.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Guaifenesin, the expectorant component, can sometimes cause stomach upset, leading to nausea or vomiting.
• Constipation: Codeine is known to slow down bowel movements, potentially causing constipation, especially with prolonged use.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches as a side effect of Guaituss AC.
• Dry Mouth: Guaifenesin may cause dry mouth as a side effect.
• Respiratory Depression: In rare cases, especially with high doses or in susceptible individuals, codeine can cause respiratory depression, which is characterized by slowed or shallow breathing. This is more common with higher doses or when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Guaituss AC are possible but rare. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Other Adverse Effects: Some individuals may experience other less common side effects such as sweating, confusion, urinary retention, or changes in mood.

It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects and to promptly report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about side effects associated with Guaituss AC, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Guaituss AC:

• Storage:
  • Store Guaituss AC at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep it tightly closed in its original container, out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not store Guaituss AC in the bathroom or in areas where it might get exposed to moisture or direct sunlight.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of any unused or expired medication properly according to local guidelines or as instructed by your pharmacist.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
  • If unsure about the proper disposal method, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Guaituss AC:

• In case of an emergency or suspected overdose of Guaituss AC, such as severe drowsiness, difficulty breathing, extreme weakness, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention.
• If possible, bring the medication container or packaging to the emergency room to assist healthcare providers in treatment.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider while taking Guaituss AC to monitor your progress and adjust treatment if necessary.
• Do not share Guaituss AC with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as it may not be suitable or safe for them.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and vitamins you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Avoid consuming alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking Guaituss AC, as it can increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Guaituss AC affects you, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Following these guidelines for storage, disposal, handling emergencies/overdose, and other relevant information can help ensure the safe and effective use of Guaituss AC. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.